Estimating Root Length Densities Around Transplanted Container-Grown Plants

Abstract

A simple method is described for measuring root length densities and is applied to the study of root distributions around transplanted container-grown plants. Roots were separated from core samples using a soil elutriation system and counted using Tennant's line intersect method. The elutriation system was constructed using inexpensive readily available materials. With this method a single operator can separate the roots from 40-50 samples per day. Soil core samples can be stored at 4 °C in plastic bags for at least three weeks and, after separation, in covered petri dishes for ten weeks without deterioration or fungal growth. Root lengths can be estimated for up to 80 samples per day. Root length density data from two Escallonia rosea shrubs are compared. One shrub was planted in unamended backfill soil and the other in amended backfill soil.